FOC Newsletter, Chairman’s Letter, Fall 2008

On Sunday, October 5, the Friends held their eleventh annual Gala. Although there were morning showers, the weather improved beautifully just prior to the noon starting time, to provide a very pleasant afternoon. This year’s theme was trout and trout fishing, and featured demonstrations by local fishing clubs and tours to the hatchery where visitors could view the ponds where eggs are nurtured to produce the trout that inhabit the river.

I would like to thank Park Superintendent Gil Bergen and his staff, all board members, and volunteers for helping to make the day a success. A gross total of $13,173 was collected through admissions and auctions. Thank you to all attendees. I hope you had a wonderful time. Please click this link for more information on the Gala.

The restoration of the mill is finally underway. The building has been lowered onto its new foundation. The Friends have hired mill restoration expert Walter Hollien and his crew to complete the project. Work can now proceed and we should see progress with every visit to the park.

Autumn is in evidence everywhere throughout the park. Trees are ablaze with red, yellow, and orange foliage. The landscape is a sight to behold. Visit soon to enjoy this display by nature, before it is gone for this year.

On a sad note, the DEC has decided not to renew the license to operate the hatchery after December 31, 2008, due to the presence of the IPN virus in some of the trout. The State, with much opposition from the Friends’ Board of Trustees, will be closing the hatchery. We are hoping this decision can be reversed and that both the DEC and the State will provide a plan and timeline to eradicate the problem as soon as possible. No doubt you have received the flyer the Friends mailed to all members explaining the details of the DEC’s decision and the Friends’ reasons for opposing it. If you also object to this move, I urge you to contact your State representatives, the DEC, and New York State Department of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation to let your voice be heard. The hatchery has been in operation for over one hundred and forty four years and is one of the most valuable assets in the park. The income produced from fishing helps offset operational costs. This is your park. Help us preserve it for years to come.

Sincerely,
Bob Labuski

Current Chairman's Letter

Past Chairman's Letters:
Summer 2011
Spring 2011
Winter 2010-11
Fall 2010
Summer 2010
Spring 2010
Winter 2009-10
Fall 2009
Summer 2009
Spring 2009
Winter 2008-09
Fall 2008
Summer 2008
Spring 2008
Winter 2007-08
Fall 2007
Summer 2007
Spring 2007